One of the last spring flowers are blooming. I love peonies to pepper my home, give as gifts and surprise friends at their offices.

How to Make Cut Peonies Last Longer

To make your cut peonies last, select unopened buds at the right stage. You want buds that are showing some color through the green bud. All green buds don't usually open after being cut. Buds that are also starting to unfurl will work.

Make sure to gently shake to remove hitchhiking ants.

Picking unopened buds will give you cut peonies a lot longer than selecting already opened flowers. If you want to hint at what is to come, include one unfurled flower.

Keep Water Getting Into Stems

To keep the opening buds and flowers fresh, cut half an inch off the stem every couple of days and change the water daily. Spent flowers and stems can be composted.

Also place them in a cool spot where you can easily enjoy their scent. I have yet to see someone spot my peony bouquets and not want to put their nose into the flowers!